Honorary Alumnus/Alumna Award
Dr. Michael Berheide arrived on Berea College’s campus in 1981 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in political science from Ohio Northern University. He completed his Ph.D. in political science from Indiana University in 1984. He became a full professor at Berea in 1999 and later was awarded the Seabury Award for Teaching. Through his time at Berea College, he taught classes in political science and general education.
Michael was a beloved teacher and mentor, guiding students who study political science and has served as chair of the Political Science department and been on nearly every Berea College committee and council. His commitment to Berea’s students through support of student organizations and athletics is impressive.
Michael has also engaged with the larger community, serving various leadership roles in professional organizations (especially the Kentucky Political Science Association—which designated him as one of 13 “Distinguished Political Scientists”), local schools, churches, youth sports, community service organizations and even as the drummer in several bands.
After nearly half a century of teaching and mentoring Berea College students and serving the Berea College community, the mark Michael leaves is indelible. He has been a leader, dedicated to teaching and committed to Berea College and its students. His generous gifts have deepened this community.
After graduating Montpelier High School, Becky Berheide obtained her bachelor’s degree in health and physical education at Ohio Northern University. She began working at Berea College’s Student Craft warehouse in 1993. Becky served several roles, including services coordinator, shipping clerk/office worker at the Student Crafts warehouse and a sales clerk for the Log House Craft Gallery. Becky also had a seasonal position at Berea College Book Store from 1994 to 1997, and she worked at the Berea College Log House Gift Shop from 1996 to 1997.
In December 1997, Becky took an administrative assistant role in Facilities Management. Retiring as the office manager at Facilities Management, Becky has served many other roles in this position, such as student labor supervisor, administrative assistant and support team leader, and she provided accounting support to the capital projects manager. Becky also taught dance aerobics and step aerobics classes at the College beginning in 1989.
Becky has been a valued student labor supervisor for Facilities Management. She has always presented herself as a role model for other team members and students by acting with integrity and showing concern for others. Under her guidance and direction, student workers are courteous and pleasant in their interactions with all customers. In her student labor meetings, Becky stressed the importance of customer service, enriching soft-skills development in Berea’s students.
Becky has been dedicated to her jobs and the Berea College mission. Her knowledge and work in each role have been valued and appreciated.
